Moscow's „Speaker's Corners“ To Open in May

According to the radio station The Voice of Russia, two „Speaker's Corners“, comparable to the one in London's Hyde Park, will be established in Gorky Park and Sokolniki Park in May. The opening of the discussion areas had been scheduled for January. However, the start was postponed due to administrative failings.

The appointed areas can accomodate up to 2,000 people and will be available from 7am to 10pm every day. Those who are planning a rally or demonstration in Gorky or Sokolniki Park need to apply online for a date and time three to 15 days before the planned event, no further authorization is required. The choice of topics is not limited, but has to be in line with the Russian law.

The opposition is sceptical of the municipality's plans. They criticize the chosen parks as being to far from the city centre and too small for large-scale demonstrations.